Age-Related Macular Degeneration Awareness Month
February is Age-Related Macular Degeneration (AMD) Awareness Month. AMD is an eye condition that affects your central vision. It’s one of the most common causes of sight loss in the UK. We can help you understand AMD and support you if you’re diagnosed.
What is AMD?
AMD affects the macula, a small part of the retina at the back of your eye. It causes problems with your central vision - the vision you use to look straight at something. AMD can make it harder to read, recognise faces and watch TV.
There are two main types of AMD:
Dry AMD develops gradually and leads to a dark or missing area in your central vision.
Wet AMD is rarer. It can develop very quickly and cause rapid changes in your central vision.
Spot the signs of AMD early
Early detection and management of AMD is important so you can get treatment as early as possible. Knowing the signs and having a regular eye test is the best way to look after your eyes.
Tips for managing your AMD
Get help with your AMD
For help and answers to your questions, you can call us on 0303 123 9999 (8am-8pm weekdays and 9am-1pm on Saturdays) or email [email protected].
Speak to an Eye Care Liaison Officer (ECLO) at a hospital near you
ECLOs provide information, emotional support and advice if you have a condition which affects your sight.
They work in a variety of eye care locations, including hospitals and eye clinics.
If you’d like to contact an ECLO, visit Sightline Directory and search ECLO and your postcode, call us on 0303 123 9999 or email [email protected].
Read more about AMD
We have a booklet with more information about AMD, available in a range of formats. You can download a digital copy below. Call us if you’d like a copy in braille.
Making the most of your sight
There are lots of ways to make the most of your remaining sight and make your everyday life easier with AMD. This may mean making things bigger, using brighter lighting, or using colour to make things easier to see.
A range of assistive aids are available to buy on the RNIB Shop. This includes favourites like our liquid level indicator, talking microwave and accessible technology.
Support for care professionals
An introduction to age-related macular degeneration
Online, Tuesday, 4 March 2025, 2pm - 2.30pm, Free
If you are a professional working in health and social care, join our free webinar for an overview of AMD. The session looks at what the eye condition is, the effect on vision, treatment and tips to support someone who may need an eye test or has been diagnosed with the condition. Our RNIB Health and Social Care Training team looks forward to welcoming professionals from across the sector on Tuesday, 4 March at 2pm.
Image of a group of students listening intently to the captivating teachings
Listen to our podcasts for health care professionals
Our short podcasts are essential listening for health and social care professionals working in a clinical, care or home setting. We explore the challenges presented by sight loss for older people and adults with complex or additional support needs, and offer advice, support, tips and signposting to help.
In this campaign
Get more information on AMD
Find out more in-depth information about AMD and how to look after your eyes.
Visit the Macular Society website
The Macular Society is a charity that offers help, information and support to anyone affected by macular disease. They also fund and support research.
Join a support group
You can also get advice, information and peer support at our free support groups. They’re a safe space to talk to others in a similar situation and get help to do the things you want and need to do.
Listen to our podcasts for health care professionals
Our short podcasts explore the challenges presented by sight loss for older people and adults with complex or additional support needs, and offer advice, support, tips and signposting to help.